In my nearly two decades of work on mine-related issues throughout Appalachia the amazing sight of orange water has never stopped surprising me. It doesn’t matter if I’m on one of my favorite trails in Zaleski State Forest or in a creek where children play, shockingly orange streams don’t surprise me anymore.
This toxic legacy from the history of Ohio’s coal mining is all too familiar in Ohio. Due to lack of funding, federal and state agencies have been unable prioritize the clean-up of this toxic eyesore. But Congress has the chance and the potential to invest in this important task.
The Last year, bipartisan legislation was passed in the area of infrastructureIt provides an incredible and vital influx of funds to help clean up more that a hundred years of coal mining-related damage.
These funds can be spent by the states to remove safety hazards from old mining sites, preventing landslides and controlling erosion, or to restore vegetation.
More:Opinion: A bipartisan bill for infrastructure is good for our region, our country and our state
However, acid mine drainage is a problem that can cause sickly orange water. This can’t be fixed easily and requires a different approach.
Acid mine drainage is when certain types of rock are exposed to oxygen and water. This chemical reaction causes groundwater to become more acidic, which can lead to the death of aquatic life. Acidification can kill aquatic life, sometimes causing death in streams. It can also lead to lost revenue for the outdoor recreation sector, which can cost millions.
More:“That’s vinegar”: The history of contamination and progress made by the Ohio River
Acid mine drainage is a problem that will not go away. There is no one-size fits all solution. It requires continuous water treatment to be able to deal with it. These groups include Rural ActionThey have made amazing progress in cleaning up Ohio’s waterways, but they cannot do it without funding.
The current situation is a result. Abandoned Mine LandsThe program is funded by fees from coal production. It allows states to reserve up to 30% of annual Abandoned mine Lands grants in interest-bearing account that can pay for ongoing water treatment costs.
More:Opinion: Washington should pay attention to abandoned mine programs
However, the infrastructure deal did not include a similar provision. Congress must act to correct this oversight and allow states to set aside some money to give them the flexibility to continue treating this contaminated water.
There is no time like the present. It is critical that Ohio’s Congressmen identify and support a path forwardto get the resources where they are most necessary.
This small change would not cost Ohio a penny and would allow it to address the problem. We now have the opportunity to invest more in acid mine drainage clean-up with the infrastructure deal funding. Ohio could put aside the funding that is actually needed, and not what is left.
Orange water is something I am used to, but I hope it never becomes a problem for my children. Let’s get rid of these toxic legacy so that our children can enjoy an Appalachia filled with clean, clear water.
Dana Kuhnline serves as the campaign manager for ReImagine Appalachia. She is based out of Cincinnati and has worked for nearly two decades on Central Appalachia coal mine cleanup and other community-led initiatives.